[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 122 (Monday, September 8, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S11184]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for 
hate crimes legislation. On May 1, 2003, Senator Kennedy and I 
introduced the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, a bill that would 
add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that 
violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred in Denver, 
CO. On November 6, 2001, a 35-year-old Middle Eastern man was attacked 
by two men while on an evening walk. One of the men attacked the victim 
with a soda can, knocking him to the ground. Once on the ground, the 
second assailant kicked the victim in the ribs and threw soda cans at 
his head. The assailants also yelled obscenities and racial slurs at 
the victim ordering him to ``Go back to his country.''
  I believe that government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to 
defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The Local Law 
Enforcement Enhancement Act is a symbol that can become substance. I 
believe that by passing this legislation and changing current law, we 
can change hearts and minds as well.

                          ____________________